Mini Photography Blog 

Behind the glass

The making of my sketch: 

While creating the plan of my photo, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to execute. From the second I saw the prompt, I envisioned a mirror with someone looking through at a completely different body from their own, portraying body dysmorphia. This is a very emotionally-intense subject, so I knew shadows and low lighting would be needed to accurately depict my scene. In my sketch, I had intended to place clothing on the mirror as another contrast, but I swapped it out for beauty products on the table, as this was easier to understand for the audience. I also added in the digital screens depicting bright headlines on media dedicated to changing your looks to help convey the overall message more effectively, and as a source of light in the picture. 

In my photograph, the mise en scene reflects the distorted views of self-image caused by the societal pressure on physical appearance, specifically from social media. My subject is dressed in an outfit completely covering their figure to portray body insecurities. The red hoodie contrasts from the dark room, drawing attention to the subject. The mirror directly in front of the subject reflects a distorted image of a face, symbolizing dysmorphia and misperception. The laptop and iPad placed on the table showcase tutorials on how to change and optimize looks, showing media’s influence on self-identity. I utilized low-key lighting, having the only light source be the technology to set the melancholic scene, with feelings of isolation and lack of direction. The composition is meticulously done, as I surrounded my subject with beauty-enhancing products as they analyze their reflection to strengthen the theme of self-image and insecurities. I edited the photo to intensify the shadows and reflections to elevate the feelings of shame and isolation. 

Creating this photo was not a fast or easy process. After all my planning for the perfect shot, I had to find and set up all my props in a way where the camera would capture them and they could help tell the story. After all that, lighting was another battle I had to conquer. Although I brightened the screens as much as I could, I needed more light to help illuminate both my subject and the pictures on the mirror, so I directed the flash of an I phone towards my subject. This signature I phone lighting was another choice I made to help connect social media to the issues I was portraying.